Companion cropping is where two or more crops are grown together. Typically, there is a main crop and a secondary crop. The crops can be sown at the same time, or the secondary crop can just be in the ground for a shorter period.
There are many benefits to companion cropping such as reduced pests, and weeds for the primary crop provide nutrients for the main crop thereby increasing yields with lower artificial inputs. It can also be a great way to protect and provide cover to the soil.
There are different types of companion cropping techniques that may work for you:
- Trap cropping
- Intercropping
- Under-sowing
Trap Cropping
The main purpose of a trap crop is to attract pests away from the main crop. As certain pests are attracted to specific tastes, this style of companion cropping is very useful for those crops that struggle with pest problems such as oilseed rape with the flea beetle. The use of sprays with a trap crop should be significantly reduced as the main crop is not under as much threat from pests. A trap crop can be sown around the border of a field to surround the main crop, or it can be sown in alternating rows with the main crop. With trap cropping, it is important to find the right trap crop to accompany your main crop.
Intercropping
Intercropping is when both companion crops are typically sown and harvested together. The two crops are used to help encourage growth within the other crop by promoting higher plant resource efficiency and to stop crop-specific pests. Some examples are peas and barley, peas and oats, and beans and oats. With the examples mentioned it is useful to note that a leguminous companion crop has been intercropped with a non-leguminous crop, so both crops will benefit. Intercropping can greatly improve yields for the above reasons.
Under-sowing
As the name suggests, this is when the secondary crop is sown over the same area as the main cash crop. An example of this is grass/clover under maize. It can be sown together with the main crop or as a separate pass.
Once the main crop is harvested the under-sown crop can be left to continue growing. The under-sown crop suppresses weeds, adds nitrogen to the ground (if using a legume) and ensures bare soil is covered, reducing erosion and run-off at harvest time and whilst the main crop is establishing. Avoiding leaving soils bare is a fundamental way of helping soil organic matter to increase.
Companion cropping is also an option under SFI – CIPM3: Companion crop on arable and horticultural land. Within this option you can receive £55 per hectare per year to meet the relevant aims that come with companion cropping.
For further help and advice, please contact our Agricultural Compliance team on 01981 590514.